Texans TE Daniels likely to miss several games

As if the Texans don’t have enough concerns about an offense that has failed to score a touchdown in two of their last three games, they found out Monday they’ve lost veteran tight end Owen Daniels.

Daniels, who has been quarterback Matt Schaub’s second-favorite receiver to Andre Johnson for the last seven seasons, could miss several games because of a leg injury
he suffered late in Sunday’s 34-3 loss at San Francisco.

Garrett Graham, who’s tied with Daniels for the team lead with three touchdown receptions, will start against St. Louis on Sunday. Rookie Ryan Griffin will be promoted to Graham’s backup spot.

The Texans should have an idea Tuesday about how long he’ll be out. He could be placed on injured reserve with the designation to return.

After the St. Louis game, the Texans travel to Kansas City before their open date. They return for a prime-time game against Indianapolis on Nov. 3 before visiting Arizona on Nov. 10.

Coach Gary Kubiak said at his Monday news conference that Daniels suffered the injury late in the 49ers game. Daniels didn’t even know he was injured after the game.

Daniels, an eight-year veteran who earned his second trip to the Pro Bowl last season, was the Texans’ leading receiver at San Francisco, where he caught six passes for 60 yards.

He’s second behind Johnson in receptions with 24 for 252 yards.

Graham, a three-year veteran, has gotten a lot of playing time because Kubiak likes to use formations with multiple tight ends. Graham has 15 catches for 141 yards.